Does Shelter Insurance car insurance cover damage caused by a collision with an animal if I only have liability coverage?

As a driver, it’s important to know what your car insurance covers and how it can protect you in the event of an accident. One particular concern is what happens when you collide with an animal while driving. Does your insurance policy cover this type of damage, especially if you only have liability coverage with Shelter Insurance? In this article, we will examine the specifics of Shelter Insurance’s car insurance policies regarding animal-related accidents and explore your options for protecting yourself and your vehicle.

Understanding Shelter Insurance Car Insurance Policies

Shelter Insurance offers a range of car insurance policies, each with its own coverage options. Depending on the policy you choose, you may have coverage for a variety of incidents, including animal-related accidents. These policies include:

• Liability coverage
• Collision coverage
• Comprehensive coverage

It’s important to understand what each policy type covers to determine if you have protection against animal-related accidents.

Additionally, Shelter Insurance offers optional add-ons to their car insurance policies, such as roadside assistance and rental car coverage. These add-ons can provide extra peace of mind and protection in case of unexpected incidents on the road. It’s important to review all available options and choose the policy and add-ons that best fit your needs and budget.

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

What Is Liability Coverage And What Does It Cover?

Liability coverage is the minimum coverage required in most states and covers damage and injuries caused by you to other people or their property. However, this coverage does not cover damages to your own vehicle or injuries suffered by you in the event of an accident. If you collide with an animal while driving and only have liability coverage, you will not receive any coverage for the damage to your car.

It is important to note that liability coverage has limits. This means that if the damages or injuries caused by you exceed the coverage limit, you will be responsible for paying the remaining amount out of pocket. It is recommended to have higher coverage limits to ensure that you are fully protected in case of an accident.

Additionally, liability coverage does not cover intentional acts or criminal behavior. If you intentionally cause harm to someone or their property, your liability coverage will not apply. It is important to always drive responsibly and follow traffic laws to avoid any accidents or incidents that could result in the loss of coverage.

Collision Coverage: What Does It Cover And How Much Does It Cost?

Collision coverage, on the other hand, covers damages to your own car, regardless of fault. This includes damage caused by a collision with an animal. The cost of collision coverage varies depending on your deductible and the value of your vehicle. In general, the higher your deductible, the lower your premium, but the more you will pay out of pocket if you need to file a claim. However, having this coverage can give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected against animal-related accidents.

It’s important to note that collision coverage is not required by law, but it may be required by your lender if you have a car loan. Additionally, collision coverage may not cover the full cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle. It’s important to review your policy carefully and consider adding additional coverage, such as comprehensive coverage, to ensure you are fully protected in the event of an accident.

Comprehensive Coverage: Is It Worth The Extra Cost?

Comprehensive coverage is often confused with collision coverage, but it offers protection for damages to your vehicle caused by events other than a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Animal-related accidents are typically covered under comprehensive coverage. While this type of coverage is optional, it can be a worthwhile investment to protect your vehicle against unexpected events.

One important thing to consider when deciding whether or not to purchase comprehensive coverage is the value of your vehicle. If your car is older and has a low market value, it may not be worth the extra cost of comprehensive coverage. On the other hand, if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle, comprehensive coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected damage.

It’s also important to note that comprehensive coverage typically includes a deductible, which is the amount you will have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Make sure to choose a deductible that you can afford in case of an accident or other covered event. Some insurance companies also offer a zero deductible option, but this will likely come with a higher premium.

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Animal-Related Accidents: What Types Of Animals Are Usually Covered By Car Insurance?

Most car insurance policies cover collisions with all types of animals, including deer, dogs, cats, and even cows. However, it’s always important to check your policy to confirm what types of animals are covered and what coverage you have in the event of an accident.

It’s worth noting that some insurance policies may have specific exclusions for certain types of animals. For example, exotic animals like snakes or monkeys may not be covered, or there may be limitations on coverage for hitting large animals like moose or elk. Additionally, some policies may only cover damage to your car and not any injuries sustained by the animal or passengers in your car. It’s important to review your policy carefully and ask your insurance provider any questions you may have to ensure you have the coverage you need.

The Difference Between Hitting A Wild Animal Vs A Domestic Animal

It’s important to note that there may be differences in coverage depending on whether the animal you collide with is wild or domestic. For example, if you hit a wild animal such as a deer, your collision coverage or comprehensive coverage will typically cover the damage. However, if you hit a domestic animal such as a dog or cat, your liability coverage may also come into play, as you may be liable for the damages caused to the animal’s owner.

It’s also worth noting that hitting a wild animal can be more dangerous than hitting a domestic animal. Wild animals such as deer or moose can weigh several hundred pounds and can cause significant damage to your vehicle, as well as potentially causing serious injury or even death to you or your passengers. Domestic animals, on the other hand, are typically smaller and less likely to cause as much damage or injury. However, it’s still important to exercise caution and try to avoid hitting any animal if possible.

When Liability Coverage Falls Short: The Risks Of Not Having Collision Or Comprehensive Coverage

While liability coverage is the minimum coverage required by law, it does not offer the same level of protection as collision and comprehensive coverage. If you only have liability coverage and collide with an animal, you will be responsible for the cost of repairs to your vehicle. This can be especially costly if the animal causes significant damage or if you hit multiple animals, such as in the case of a herd crossing the road. Investing in collision or comprehensive coverage can help protect you from these unexpected expenses.

Another risk of not having collision or comprehensive coverage is that you will not be covered for damages caused by natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, or tornadoes. If your car is damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster, you will be responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement. This can be a significant financial burden, especially if you do not have the funds to cover the costs.

Additionally, if you are leasing or financing your vehicle, your lender may require you to have collision and comprehensive coverage. If you do not have this coverage and your car is damaged or destroyed, you may be in breach of your lease or loan agreement. This could result in additional fees or even repossession of your vehicle.

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

How To File An Insurance Claim After An Animal-Related Accident

If you are involved in an accident with an animal, the first step is to assess the situation to ensure that you and any passengers are safe. Then, contact Shelter Insurance as soon as possible to report the accident. You will need to provide details about the accident and any damages or injuries suffered.

If you have collision or comprehensive coverage, you can file a claim to cover the damages to your vehicle. If you only have liability coverage, you may still be able to file a claim if the animal’s owner is found to be at fault for the accident.

It is important to note that if you hit a wild animal, such as a deer, you may not be able to file a claim for damages to your vehicle under your insurance policy. This is because hitting a wild animal is often considered an “act of God” and is not covered by standard insurance policies. However, if you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to file a claim for damages caused by other types of animal-related accidents, such as hitting a domestic animal that is loose on the road.

Tips For Preventing Animal-Related Accidents While Driving

While it’s impossible to completely avoid animal-related accidents while driving, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. These include:

• Drive carefully and be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas known for animal crossings
• Use your high beams to increase visibility at night
• Slow down if you see an animal on the side of the road
• Don’t swerve or brake abruptly if you encounter an animal on the road

It’s important to note that different animals may require different precautions. For example, if you’re driving in an area with deer, it’s recommended to slow down and honk your horn to scare them away. On the other hand, if you encounter a moose, it’s best to stop your vehicle and wait for it to move away on its own. Knowing how to react to different animals can help prevent accidents and keep both you and the animals safe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shelter Insurance Car Insurance And Animal-Related Accidents

Q: Does Shelter Insurance cover damage to my car if I collide with a deer?
A: Yes, if you have collision or comprehensive coverage.

Q: Is hitting a domestic animal covered under my car insurance policy?
A: It depends on your coverage. Liability coverage may cover costs associated with hitting a domestic animal, while collision and comprehensive coverage will cover damages to your vehicle.

Q: Do I need collision or comprehensive coverage to be protected against animal-related accidents?
A: While liability coverage is required by law, it doesn’t cover damage to your own vehicle. Investing in collision or comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected expenses related to animal-related accidents.

Q: What types of animals are covered under Shelter Insurance’s car insurance policy?
A: Shelter Insurance covers a wide range of animals, including deer, dogs, cats, and other domestic animals. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific policy and state regulations.

Q: What should I do if I hit an animal while driving?
A: If you hit an animal while driving, it’s important to stay calm and pull over to a safe location. Check for injuries to yourself and passengers, and then assess the damage to your vehicle. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident and file a claim.

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Conclusion: Choosing The Right Car Insurance Policy For Your Needs

When it comes to protecting yourself and your vehicle against animal-related accidents, it’s important to understand what your car insurance policy covers. While liability coverage is the minimum required by law, it may not provide the level of protection you need. Consider investing in collision or comprehensive coverage to protect yourself against unexpected expenses related to animal-related accidents. By taking proactive steps and choosing the right policy, you can drive with confidence and peace of mind.

It’s also important to note that some car insurance policies may offer additional benefits, such as roadside assistance or rental car coverage. These can be valuable add-ons to consider when choosing a policy, especially if you frequently travel long distances or rely heavily on your vehicle for transportation. Be sure to carefully review the details of each policy and compare them to your specific needs before making a decision.

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption